RAWALPINDI: Facing mounting flood risks ahead of the monsoon season, the Water and Sanitation Agency has moved urgently to secure Rs84.53 million for the dredging and clearance of Leh Nullah, a lifeline drainage channel for the city.
Officials confirmed that a formal request has been submitted to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, seeking Rs50 million for the 2026 monsoon operation and Rs34.53 million to settle pending dues from last year. The funding is critical to prevent urban flooding during peak rainfall months.
A detailed field survey has revealed alarming levels of obstruction within the nullah. Illegal dumping of construction debris and solid waste has significantly narrowed the waterway at multiple points, restricting flow and increasing the likelihood of overflow during heavy rains.
Authorities warned that layers of silt and floating waste have accumulated along the nullah bed, further choking its capacity. Immediate removal of these blockages is essential to restore smooth water flow and safeguard surrounding areas from potential flood damage.
Routine desilting is typically completed before June, but officials emphasised that continuous maintenance is required throughout the monsoon season to keep the drainage system functional. Without timely intervention, even moderate rainfall could trigger serious disruptions.
WASA spokesperson Umer Farooq said that work will begin by late April once funds are approved. Given Leh Nullah’s extensive catchment and history of flooding, authorities see this operation as a critical step to protect Rawalpindi from another monsoon emergency.
